Want to know the secret to achieving perfectly crispy crust on Cast Iron Chicken Thighs with minimal effort? This recipe is a game-changer for family dinners. Use our Chipotle Seasoning Recipe to make it super tasty or add your own favorite seasoning blend.
Looking for a delicious side dish? Try our Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes and Garlic Parmesan Green Beans.
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Chicken thighs are a staple in many kitchens, offering a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The cast iron skillet ensures even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat every time.
If you like this cast iron skillet recipe, you may also love our Cast Iron Salmon or our Cast Iron Pork Chops.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Crispy Skin: Achieve perfectly crispy skin with the cast iron skillet.
- Juicy Meat: Bone-in, skin-on thighs stay moist and flavorful.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and pre-mixed seasoning.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Cast Iron Chicken Thigh Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on for the best flavor and texture.
- Chipotle Seasoning: A pre-mixed blend that adds a smoky, spicy kick.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors.
- Olive Oil: Helps to crisp up the skin and prevent sticking.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- Chipotle Seasoning: Substitute with Cajun seasoning or your favorite seasoning blend.
- Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or canola oil.
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs or drumsticks can be used, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How to Make Cast Iron Chicken Thighs
STEP 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks and the skin gets crispy.
STEP2: Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken thighs with chipotle seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
STEP 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
STEP 4: Roast the Chicken
Flip the chicken thighs and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Storage
Store leftover cast iron chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave as it will soften the skin; instead, use the oven to keep it crispy.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Make sure the chicken thighs are completely dry before seasoning.
✔️ DO Sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet without moving them to get a perfect golden crust.
✔️ DO Let chicken rest after cooking.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as boneless thighs cook faster.
Your skillet should be properly preheated on medium-high heat before adding the chicken. Make sure the chicken skin is dry before placing it in the skillet to achieve a good sear and prevent sticking.
Make sure the chicken thighs are at room temperature and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and avoid moving them for the first 5-7 minutes to develop a crispy, golden-brown skin.
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📖 Recipe
Cast Iron Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Tongs
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons chipotle seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rub the chipotle seasoning, salt, and black pepper all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save This Recipe 💌
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Notes
- Chipotle Seasoning: Substitute with Cajun seasoning or your favorite seasoning blend.
- Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or canola oil.
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs or drumsticks can be used, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
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